Common Sense Media Review
By Tom Cassidy
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Oscar-nominated bisexual love triangle drama has mild sex.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In SUNDAY BLOODY SUNDAY, 30-something divorcee Alex (Glenda Jackson) and middle-aged doctor Daniel (Peter Finch) are both in a relationship with a young man called Bob (Murray Head). The free-spirited Bob is happy with his situation. But Alex and Daniel find it increasingly difficult to reconcile their sidelined places in Bob's life.
Is It Any Good?
The London-set movie features terrific performances from its two leads -- Finch and Jackson -- that earned both of them an Oscar nomination. The script and direction were also nominated by The Academy and all four won their categories at the BAFTAs. Fresh off the back of winning the Best Director Oscar for Midnight Cowboy, director John Schlesinger brings a passion and intensity, rounded out with moments of warmth and humor.
Early 1970s London is also handsomely captured. Decidedly low-key, all the elements come together to make a quiet powerhouse of a movie that showcases a talented cast and crew at the top of their game. But perhaps Sunday Bloody Sunday's biggest strength is how it still stands up today. It's forward-thinking approach to homosexuality was ahead of it's time -- homosexuality was only decriminalized in the U.K. in 1967. Finch's Daniel in particular is portrayed with no cliched affectations or judgment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how sex is portrayed in Sunday Bloody Sunday. Is it loving and respectful? What does it mean for the characters involved? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Discuss how gay characters are portrayed in the movie. Why might this movie be considered groundbreaking? Has this changed today?
Discuss whether the three main characters -- Alex, Daniel, and Bob -- have happy endings at the end of the movie. What were each of their character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : September 21, 1971
- On DVD or streaming : January 12, 2009
- Cast : Peter Finch , Glenda Jackson , Murray Head
- Director : John Schlesinger
- Inclusion Information : Gay Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : United Artists
- Genre : Drama
- Character Strengths : Courage , Humility , Integrity
- Run time : 110 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Awards : BAFTA - BAFTA Winner , Golden Globe - Golden Globe Award Winner
- Last updated : April 23, 2020
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